For the steam train, Hoedekenskerke is the terminus of the ride. The locomotive is moved to the other side of the train, so that the train is ready for the return journey. Before reconnecting the locomotive, the water must first be topped up in the water tenders. The steam locomotive guzzles up around 6,000 litres of water a day. Talk about thirsty!

While the train waits for departure time, you will have plenty of opportunity to visit the attractions. Most are located right next to the station, in the Pluimweide Park. The coffee corner, souvenir shop and model trains are located inside De Buffer building. Outside you will find the mini train, the radio-controlled boats and much more. Please visit the separate page about De Buffer for more information.

Wienkeltje van Wullempje

It’s only a five-minute walk from the station to the village where you can visit ‘t Wienkeltje van Wullempje, located at Kerkstraat 26. This tiny labourer’s cottage shows how people lived and worked at the start of the previous century. In the shop at the front of the house, you can buy old-fashioned Dutch sweets! ‘t Wienkeltje van Wullempje is open on days when the train runs, from 11.30 – 16.30 (free admission). Group visits outside normal visiting hours are possible by appointment and for a fee. For further details: www.wienkeltjevanwullempje.nl.

Western Scheldt

Hoedekenskerke station is located at the foot of the Western Scheldt dike. In the past, the ferry to Terneuzen used to depart from the small harbour on the other side of the dike. Today, it is a small marina that dries up at low tide. Water and shipping enthusiasts will have a wonderful time here. The dike and the harbour plateau offer sweeping views of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen over the miles-wide Western Scheldt estuary. You can watch the ships passing by on their way to the Port of Antwerp, including huge container ships.

Walking route

There is a lovely walking route of about one and a half kilometres. From the station, this route takes you through an orchard and the village to the mill. From the mill, you can make your way back to the station through the village, via the church and ‘t Wienkeltje van Wullempje. The route is signposted. For more information about the mill, please visit www.dekoutermolen.nl